February 2026:

Fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos,

I hope this message finds you all staying as warm as possible! Being from Buffalo, I am definitely not feeling homesick and I am very much looking forward to warmer weather—so I no longer have to ice skate down my driveway.

I would like to begin this month by extending my deepest gratitude to Second Vice District Governor Greg, the Winchester Host Lions, and everyone who helped make our Winter Conference at the Winchester Moose Lodge such an outstanding success. What a fantastic venue for meetings, with excellent space and food! We enjoyed outstanding speakers, panels, and breakout sessions covering three of Lions International’s Global Causes—Mental Health, Hunger, and Disaster Preparedness—along with leadership development and membership growth. We were also inspired by hearing from our talented Leos.

In true Lions fashion, service was at the heart of the conference. Together, we collected more than 1,200 pounds of food, which was shared between the Highland Food Pantry and the Congregational Community Action Project. With over 160 attendees representing 46 clubs in District 24-L, along with clubs from Districts 24-C and 24-I and Leos from two clubs, the conference was a wonderful example of what happens when fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos come together in service, learning, and fellowship.

We also kicked off our state-wide Lions Club International Foundation fundraiser – Virtual Duck Races! We raised over $1,000 already with the goal of every club in the District participating by purchasing ducks that will compete for the ultimate prize of a $1,000 donation to LCIF in your or your club’s name (winner decides).  The big Virtual Race will be at our State Convention in Bristol, VA. Please reach out to SVDG Chuck Schwab or IPDG Jim Cech for details. This fundraiser really “quacks me up!”

As we enter February, it is time to begin thinking about succession planning. Strong clubs depend on a steady flow of new ideas, new energy, and new leaders. I encourage every club to educate its members on the roles and responsibilities of officers and to review the recorded training sessions available on this website. Preparing tomorrow’s leaders today ensures that our service continues strong into the future.

On February 4, the District will host a virtual program to discuss the qualifications, commitments, and journey of serving as a District Governor. I encourage you to participate and hear directly from current and past leaders about their experiences and the meaningful impact of this role.

I again ask each of you to take part in our Each One Bring One membership effort. President AP Singh’s theme, Mission 1.5, reminds us that growing our membership is essential to expanding our service. Membership truly is the lifeblood of our clubs—because more Lions means more hands to serve and more lives impacted. I have challenged every club to hold at least one membership drive in the coming months.

From growth workshops across Lions International and conversations with Lions nationwide, several common truths stand out:

• It still starts with simply asking someone to join.
• We should ask prospective members, "What is your passion for service?"
• We must strengthen our onboarding and orientation.
• Inviting prospects to participate in service right away helps them see the immediate impact of Lions.
• Lions is a family—and we need to show that we care.

If your club would like help with membership, please reach out to PCC Glen Logan. The membership breakout session for the Winter Conference is also posted on this website.

Thank you again for the privilege of serving as your District Governor and for all that you do for your communities. Together, as fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos, we will continue to grow our membership, strengthen our leadership, and expand our service.

Yours in Lionism,

DG Dan

January 2026:

Fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos,

Happy New Year!
As we reach the halfway point of the Lions year, I am truly inspired by the incredible impact our District continues to make across our communities. It is an honor to serve alongside so many dedicated Lions who exemplify what it means to Lead to Serve—and Serve to Lead.

This month, we are gathering for our Winter Conference, and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to SVDG Greg and the Winchester Host Lions for their leadership and dedication in chairing this important event. The conference will focus on Service, Training, and Fellowship, the very pillars that strengthen our clubs and our District.

As part of Lions Clubs International Hunger Week, we will be collecting food donations for local food banks. If you are attending, please bring a bag of food to support this vital service. Conference sessions will include Mental Health, Membership Recruitment and Retention, Hunger, Disaster Preparedness and Support, along with Leo breakout sessions. I hope to see many of you there!
In addition, our Cabinet will vote on the creation of a District 24L 501(c)(3) Foundation, an exciting initiative that will allow all clubs in our District to leverage shared resources. This outstanding effort is being led by PCC John Knepper, and I thank him for his vision and leadership.

This year’s statewide LCIF fundraiser—led by MD LCIF Chair IPDG Jim Cech—is a virtual duck race! What a fun and engaging way to support LCIF. Virtual ducks will be available for purchase at the Winter Conference, and additional information will be shared with each club. Our goal is for every club to purchase at least one duck. The winning duck at the State Convention will receive $1,000 donated to LCIF in the name of the winner or their club.

I was also honored to attend the District 24L Peace Poster judging, conducted by three exceptionally talented AP Art majors. The creativity and passion displayed by these young artists were truly inspiring. I am especially proud that our District winner advanced to the Multiple District level and on to Lions Clubs International—a remarkable achievement for our District and our students.

Lion Dorothy and I were delighted to celebrate the holidays with the Greater Falls Run, McLean FilAm, Springfield Global, Spotsylvania, and Alexandria Asian American Lions Clubs. The fellowship, energy, and holiday spirit we shared were a wonderful reminder of the joy of Lionism.

As we look ahead to the next six months, membership recruitment and extension will be my highest priorities. The future of Lionism—and our ability to serve—depends on growth. Simply put, we cannot serve if we do not grow. I am asking every Lion to participate in the Each One, Bring One membership drive and for every club to commit to at least one membership recruitment event in the coming months.

Please take a moment to reflect, consider the impact your club makes today, the lives you touch, and what would happen if Lions were no longer there to serve your community. Our legacy depends on each of us taking action now. Together, through intentional growth and strong leadership, we will ensure that Lionism remains vibrant and impactful for generations to come.

Please continue to visit the District 24L website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Our communications team is doing an outstanding job of sharing meaningful content and providing valuable resources to support club success.

Thank you for all that you do to make a difference in your communities and for living our motto each day—We Serve.

Yours in Lionism,
DG Dan

December 2025:

Fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos,

First and foremost, on behalf of the entire District leadership team, I extend to you the warmest wishes for a very Happy Holiday Season. May your days be safe, healthy, joyful, and filled with moments that reflect the profound impact of the service you so generously provide to your communities. This time of year, reminds us not only of gratitude, but of the power of unity and service—values that define us as Lions.

As we arrive at the halfway mark of this Lions year, I remain deeply grateful for your continued dedication to service and to our shared mission. The work you do—locally and globally—truly embodies our motto, We Serve. Each visit, each project, and each act of kindness reinforces how powerfully you are “Navigating to the Future” and lifting those in need. The more I see the impact of your service, the more humbled I am by your commitment.

As we look ahead to the new year, the District’s focus remains clear: to support every club in the areas of Leadership, Service, and Membership Growth. International President A.P. Singh has called on us to advance Mission 1.5 and build stronger clubs for the future. His theme challenges us to grow with purpose—and together, we can answer that call.

Our founder, Melvin Jones, reminded us that “There is only one thing greater than having the privilege of being a member of a Lions Club, and that is helping build one.” Growing our membership ensures the service we provide today will continue for generations. Imagine your community without a Lions Club. Imagine the neighbors who would go without support. That alone underscores the importance of both recruitment and retention.

I encourage every Lion to participate in our District-wide Each One Bring One membership initiative. Please take advantage of the resources posted on our website, and don’t hesitate to reach out to PCC Glen Logan, our District Global Membership Team Lead, for guidance and support.

We also look forward to gathering at our District 24L Winter Conference, chaired by 2nd Vice District Governor Greg DeRosa, on January 10th in Winchester, Virginia. In alignment with our commitment to accessible, meaningful, and time-conscious events, the Winter Conference is a one-day program offering outstanding training opportunities for just $27—including registration and lunch. This is a powerful opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as we collectively navigate the future. Please register and join Lions from across our District.

Additionally, I encourage you to engage our District Chairs for Club and Zone meeting presentations. They are a tremendous resource for learning more about our Association, our Global Causes, and the tools available to help your clubs thrive.

Once again, Happy Holidays—and thank you for the humbling honor of serving such an extraordinary District. I am inspired by each of you and grateful for your partnership as we continue to serve, grow, and navigate toward a bright future together.

Yours in Lionism,
District Governor Dan

November 2025:

Fellow Lions, Lioness-Lions, and Leos,

As we mark one-third of this Lions year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every one of you for your hospitality during our visits, your outstanding service to your communities, and the fellowship that transforms each club into a family. Your dedication truly embodies the spirit of Lionism.

When Chuck, Greg, and I visit clubs across the District, we emphasize one powerful message — the importance of membership growth and renewal.

Our founder Melvin Jones said,“There is only one thing greater than having the privilege of being a member of a Lions Club, and that is helping build one.”

Growth is not just about numbers — it’s about ensuring that our legacy of service continues for generations to come. If we fail to replace those who leave, our clubs risk fading away, and our communities lose the vital service that only Lions provide.

The need for service is growing — and Lions will be there to SERVE.

Leading to Serve – Serving to Lead

In alignment with International President A.P. Singh’s theme, “Leading to Serve, Serving to Lead,” we are each called to lead with compassion, extend a hand to those in need, and inspire others to join us in service. Leadership is not a title — it’s an action.

Together, we are also “Navigating to the Future,” ensuring our clubs remain vibrant and relevant as we adapt to meet the evolving needs of our communities.

Each One Bring One – Membership Contest

This year’s 24L District-wide membership contest, Each One Bring One, is a fun and rewarding way to grow our organization.

We’re simply asking every Lion to invite one friend, neighbor, or family member to a meeting, fundraiser, or service project.

• Clubs with the greatest percentage of members who bring guests will win a $1,000 LCIF Community Impact Grant — one for clubs over 20 members and one for clubs under 20.
• Details are available on the District 24L website.
• Participating clubs will receive banner patches, and sponsoring Lions will be entered into prize drawings — a plethora of District swag celebrating your commitment to growth!

Resources including onboarding templates, editable membership flyers, and orientation materials are also available online.
For help, contact Past Council Chair Glen Logan, District Global Membership Team Lead.

Reporting Service – Telling Our Story

As we Navigate to the Future, every club is encouraged to report their service through the Lions Portal.
Our goal: 100% of clubs reporting!

These reports are vital in helping Lions Clubs International share the global scale of our service when securing new endowments and partnerships.

Leadership Development – Building Strong Clubs

Leadership development is critical to club success. Training for Zone Chairs, Presidents, Secretaries, Treasurers, Membership Chairs, and Service Chairs is available on our District website.

When all five officers in a club complete their training, your club will receive the 5-Star Leadership Development Patch!

Strong leadership creates vision, builds culture, and drives both service and membership growth.
For questions or assistance, reach out to Past Council Chair Wilma Murphy, District Global Leadership Team Lead.

We are also seeking candidates for the Regional Lions Leadership Institute (RLLI) — an excellent opportunity to strengthen leadership skills, network with Lions across the region, and deepen your knowledge of Lionism.
Contact Past District Governor Donalda Lovelace for details.

Service Highlights and Opportunities

Mental Health Service Week:
Twenty-eight clubs participated — an incredible show of compassion and initiative in support of our newest global cause!
For service ideas or assistance, contact Lion Evelyn Marr, District Global Service Team Lead.

Peace Poster & Peace Essay Contests:
Engage local schools in these inspiring youth programs. For guidance, contact Lion Jeff Root, District Chair.

Bland Music Contest:
Planning is underway! Please consider a club donation to support this cherished program. Donations should be mailed to District Treasurer Thomas Rachele.
Questions? Contact PDG Jim Christianson, PCC Shirley Wilson, or Lion Rodney Louis.

Save the Date!

District 24L Winter Conference
January 10, Winchester, VA
Join us for an OUTSTANDING event with leadership sessions, learning opportunities, and fellowship.
Organized by 2nd Vice District Governor Greg DeRosa.

In Closing

Thank you for all you do to support our great organization and District!
As we approach Thanksgiving, let us reflect with gratitude on our blessings and the lives we touch through service.

Together, as we Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead, and Navigate to the Future, we continue the proud legacy of Lionism — united in purpose, anchored in compassion, and always ready to serve.

Yours in Lionism,
DG Dan Visone
District Governor, 24L

October, 2025:

What a Wonderful September!

I had the privilege of visiting six clubs in our amazing District this month, bringing my total to nineteen visits so far. The common theme at every stop has been clear – fellowship and service. I am deeply grateful for the warm hospitality and humbled to witness the meaningful impact each club is making in its community.

Lion Dorothy and I also had the pleasure of attending the USA/Canada Leadership Forum in Atlantic City. The three days were filled with outstanding leadership training and truly motivational speakers. A highlight was seeing GET Chair Mark Larsen and Lion Jer-Lyn Thomas awarded their bachelor’s degrees from Lions University. These degrees, and the training they represent, are open to ALL Lions, and I strongly encourage you to explore this opportunity for your own growth. If you ever have the chance to attend this Forum, take it—you will leave inspired and energized!

Our Fall Conference was also a resounding success, thanks to the tremendous efforts of Co-Chairs Lion Jane Stoll and Zone Chair Joe Miller, along with the Lions of Aquia Harbour Host, Aquia Evening, and Greater Falls Run. This year was full of exciting “firsts”: our very first one-day conference—affordable, casual, and engaging—complete with speed-learning sessions and an afternoon of powerful motivational speakers.

We were especially honored to hear an inspiring message from International Director David Wentworth during lunch and to celebrate the generosity of our District with more than $6,500 in donations and “Bed in a Bags” for those in need. The evening closed with a truly memorable Dinner in the Dark and the moving testimony of a Leader Dog recipient—an experience none of us will soon forget.

For those who attended, I hope you had a wonderful time, discovered new resources available in our District, felt your heart touched by the impact of Lions service, and made a few new friends along the way.

Special thanks to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church for hosting, to International Director David Wentworth and his partner in service Lion Valerie Wentworth, to Lion Joey Johnson and his Leader Dog Tucker, to the seven Lions who presented during Speed Learning, and to our community partners—Empowerhouse, Fairy Godmother Project, Louisann’s Hope House, and the Listen Up program. I also want to thank Lion Carol Byers for capturing photos and Lion Sally Cooney-Anderson for her outstanding work on the program.

Lastly, please remember that October 4-12 is Mental Health and Well Being Service Week. We are asking that every club perform some type of service in this global focus area and report it in the portal during this period. The Lions International Club Excellence award has this as a requirement.

It is truly a GREAT day to be a Lion!

Yours in Lionism,
DG Dan

September, 2025:

• Guest speaker International Director David Wentworth
• Lions Speed Learning sessions
• Presentations from local service partners
• A special Dinner in the Dark with a Leader Dog recipient
• A hands-on service project supporting Hope House with “Bed in a Bag” donations for the homeless

• Leadership: District 24L 5-Star Leadership Patch – for clubs where all five officers (President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership, and Service) complete officer training (links on our website).

• Service: District 24L Service Week Participation Award Patch – for clubs that participate in the three Global Service Weeks: Mental Health, Hunger, and Environment.

• Membership: Recognition and prizes as part of the Each One Bring One contest—club patches, top-club honors (small & large), recognition for the member who sponsors the most new Lions, and even a gift certificate drawing for sponsors.

• Visitation: Two levels this year—12 Club Visits and 100% Visitation (all active club members make at least one visit).

Please keep an eye out for detailed guidelines and updates from our GAT leaders .

In service, DG Dan

August, 2025:

• Visitation Kick‑Off & Awards Night – August 16 at the Remington Lions Building. Enjoy a fun start to the Visitation Program, activities planned by Lion Christine, and awards presented by IPDG Jim Cech. Don’t miss it!

• Fall Conference – September 27 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Stafford, VA. Featuring guest speaker International Director David Wentworth, Lions Speed Learning sessions, local service partner presentations, and a special Dinner in the Dark with a Leader Dog recipient. Our service project will support Hope House with “Bed in a Bag” donations for the homeless. Casual dress, affordable meals, and a full day of learning, service, and fellowship.

July, 2025:

Fellow District 24L Lions and Leos,

I want to first thank outgoing District Governor Jim Cech for his outstanding leadership and vision.  He truly helped strengthen the foundation of the District that we will continue to build upon as we move forward in Service.

It is truly an honor to serve as District Governor of District 24L this year. I am deeply grateful for the support of so many dedicated leaders throughout our district—both at the cabinet and club levels.

My theme for the year is “Navigating to the Future,” guided by the principles of Leader-ship, Member-ship, Steward-ship (local and global), Fellow-ship, and Partner-ship. To successfully navigate our future, we must embrace strategic vision, evolving technologies, adaptability, lifelong learning, community engagement, diversity, and strong partnerships.

This year, my goal is to emphasize the vital interconnection between leadership, membership, service, fellowship, and partnerships, all essential elements that will ensure the continued growth of Lionism in response to our communities’ evolving needs.

These values align seamlessly with Lions International’s Mission 1.5, as we work toward the ambitious yet achievable goal of reaching 1.5 million members worldwide by 2027. District 24L

PCC Glen, GET Mark, PID Jay, and I just returned from the Mission 1.5 workshop in Las Vegas, working and updating our District Mission 1.5 Action Plan, focused on Membership Recruitment and Extension.  Membership is the lifeblood of our Service, and we need to continue to grow to meet the growing needs of our communities.

New this year, we’re integrating Artificial Intelligence consultants, leveraging LionsVirtual.org—providing clubs with innovative tools to support recruitment, leadership development, club extension, and community outreach.

I also challenge you to fully utilize our district website, Facebook page, and Instagram, as platforms to connect, collaborate, and share best practices across clubs. The more we learn from one another, the stronger we become.  Our platforms are YOUR platforms to tell your story!

Finally, I invite and encourage your participation in our District Visitation Program, beginning with our kickoff in Remington on August 16th, and our Fall Conference on September 27th in Stafford, Virginia. The Fall Conference will focus on meaningful learning, impactful service, and heartfelt fellowship.

Together, let’s chart a course that ensures Lionism thrives—today and into the future.

Yours in service,

Dan Visone